Workshops Combined

Recently, I was given the task of co-facilitating a Work Readiness workshop where the participants were the combination of two demographically distinct groups: one half of the group was aged 55 and up (Mature Workers) and the other half 15-29 (Youth). These two groups represent the opposite sides of the employment window and you would think may not have the same needs related to work readiness. Over the duration of our time together this idea was proved false. Preparing yourself to job search at any age requires fundamental skills that are universal – communicating effectively, having a plan of action and identifying the right people to dialogue with.

From the beginning of the workshop we wanted the two groups interacting with one another so we planned the seating to have the participants mixed together, with icebreaker introductions happening at the start. This went very well and we saw right away an enthusiasm by both sides to discuss their backgrounds and experiences. As we moved forward and the discussion continued we saw similar questions brought up by each side. What do we say about ourselves that makes a difference to the employer, what do I say to stand out? Luckily the group was big and diverse enough and to have many successful and not so successful stories which they willingly shared. I think both groups were energized by the idea of relating to a group of people not usual to their sphere of influence.

We also saw how each age group approached today’s technology based job search differently, using different tools and platforms but having the same roadblocks, ie – not being able to effectively get to the person that makes the hiring decisions. As facilitators we promoted strategies and helped coach participants through some scenarios for the next time they approached employers. We also cemented the idea that a methodical planned style with relevant information could produce results.

We had hoped that everyone would feel comfortable about networking so that each may walk away with new leads or ideas related to job searching. For the youth, getting feedback from mature workers with experience is specific fields provided a glimpse into potential career paths.  For the mature workers, seeing new unique ways or a more care free approach to job search may have re-energized the process for them.

Overall the workshop seemed to be a success, we covered information that was useful to everyone and they shared lots of information with each. Initially, throwing these two groups together was thought to be a gamble but at the end it may just have been what each group needed to have happen.  

By Paulus Lacombe

Be Good to Yourself

Be Good to Yourself

It’s 3 am in the morning and I am jolted out of my blissful sleep to something like…” I forgot to send my resume to that posting that closed yesterday” Sound familiar? Job searching is stressful time, the transition of employed to unemployed to job searching is a high stress period in our lives. Stress requires us to take care of ourselves; not to be in a continuous state of reactive, intensive job search mode.  We need to create structure, routine around the job of job searching.

Create Structure-Schedule

Write out the important things you need to do to feel a sense of balance.  Items to consider are blocking out family time, including regular exercise, job hunting steps and proper eating.  Plan items, include them in your calendar/schedule the time comfortably and acknowledge yourself for completing them (like highlighting them or placing a check mark beside completed tasks)

Regular Exercise

Commit to a regular exercise routine like walking, running, free yoga or Pilates videos.  Endorphins are released that help you feel good, a task focus response to problem solving kicks in and all round stress reliever.  Always check with your doctor before you take on any new physical activity.

Spend time with Friends and family

Schedule in time to hang out with friends and family, partake in positive conversation and spending time together lifts and lightens the stress load, and helps build one another up during transitional times.

Eat Well

When our lives seem out of routine we can sometimes not make meals and distinguish meal prep time as a priority.  There can be a tendency to grab food on the run, which is often times an unhealthy choice and impacts our bodies negatively.  Access local low cost seasonal foods high in antibodies and nutrients, review and eat foods that have good nutritional, healing and well-being value so that you improve your physical state.

Be Good to Yourself

Use positive reference about yourself, positive language; acknowledge all those steps you took along the way.  Let go of stuff and look at each day as a new beginning full of all types of possibilities and experiences. 

Back to the Basics ....

Recently at a staff meeting we discussed the progress of participants in our 3 day workshop for youth aiming to obtain placements with the help of the Ontario Governments new Youth Employment Fund. During the 3 day workshop, participants gain a variety of skills, but the focus is on confidence building so that they can TALK to employers about their skills and interest in working. I was taken aback when a staff member working with employers stated “We don’t need the resumes!”.

Sometimes we get so wrapped up in perfecting our resume that we forget how important it is to be able to verbally present our skills and passion to employers. We talk about how important networking is and how effective hidden job market strategies, like cold calling are, but job searching without a resume seems foreign to us. It’s easy to forget the basics and fall into the pattern of thought that says no longer can we walk into a business and get a job ‘the old fashioned way’, by simply talking to the employer.

Effective job searching includes using different strategies. Spend some job search time rehearsing your ‘pitch’ for an employer you’d really like to work for, focusing on why you’d like to work there and how you could benefit the company. Have a personal business card to hand out so that you can leave your contact information and give it a shot!

A counsellor would be happy to help you develop your ‘pitch’, hit the pavement and be ready to wow some employers! 

THROW THOSE RESUME RULES OUT THE WINDOW! 

Recently while facilitating an Orientation workshop here at VCCS my group got side tracked by an interesting yet not new debate….what are the rules for resumes? Two young clients in the group with impressive education were frustrated because they were feeling ignored by retail and food service employers. Their goal for the time being was an entry level part time position, and even though they were including customer service skills on their resume they felt that they were being told they were overqualified and ignored because of their education …``But we can’t lie and not include our education on our resume`` they said to me.

I think it is important for us to remember that there are no rules, only guidelines when it comes to resumes. The key is to make sure that every word is substantive and relative to the readers (employers) needs. That way no matter what the format, font, bullets, length etc., it is the information that gets you a call. 

Don’t be afraid to step outside the box and try something new…personally, I love looking on pintrest.com for creative resume ideas and formats.

Does the local coffee shop need to see on your resume that you have a degree in Bio-engineering?  Ask yourself if that information is relevant to their hiring needs.

Always remember that your resume is a ‘living document’ and can change as frequently as you like. 

Come in and speak to an employment counsellor if you would like to have your resume reviewed and help with your job search! 

How Soft Skills Influence our Job Search and Our Employment

How Soft Skills Influence our Job Search and Our Employment

Soft skills are a very elusive qualification as a job seeker and an employee.  The interesting thing is that employers are looking for them, so it seems we should explore them to see how they influence not only the job search process but the process of retention once you obtain that job.

Soft skills are un-measurable, meaning that they do not come in a form of abstract evidence.  They require the use of language and past experiences to emphasize how they exist and the value that they may possess.  Some examples of soft skills include, leadership skills, collaborative, positive work attitude, willingness to learn, excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  All things being equal, employers will look at the measurable qualities/or hard skills such as certificates, diplomas, degrees,  computer and technical skills but when it comes right down to making a decision between two candidates, the employer will select the one who presents soft skills that fit best  with their work culture.

Some of these soft skills that influence you getting a job include;

Positive attitude-influencing customers and co-workers in a positive, light hearted way.  Creating a culture of positive energy; anything is possible environment.

Ability to multitask- open to taking on new tasks; not prejudging whether a task is menial or important- “just doing it” in order to keep the work process flowing.

Approachable/Good Communicator- this is showing an interest in listening to others; expressing an interest in others; being approachable and helpful.

Goal oriented/Independent-this is an interesting soft skill in that an employer isn’t looking for a lone ranger, more someone who can resolve things independently, set objectives and carry them out.

How the soft skills come together….

Capturing soft skills on a resume can be a challenge. The place to fully demonstrate these soft skills is during an interview and a common VCCS technique is through the “prove it process”. The “prove it process” is an exercise that our counsellors use to show how past employment and volunteer scenarios demonstrate our variety of soft skills.  For example, telling the employer about a time when you demonstrated good communication skills.  We all have them whether it is motivating a child to get ready for school; encouraging a customer to purchase a specific service or facilitating a training workshop at a local college.

Come in to VCCS and find out how to uncover those elusive soft skills, build interesting stories around your unique soft skills through the “prove it process”, practise articulating them in interview preparation and wow a potential employer with your insights.

Using LinkedIn to help your job search.

Social media’s influence in the job search process is here to stay. There are daily reminders about how people’s employment or potential employment has been effected by decisions they make regarding broadcasting details of their lives on the numerous social sites. The website LinkedIn is a platform that is designed to promote information that is integral to the job search process and you can stay away from some of the negative material that can sabotage good opportunities.

LinkedIn is becoming the go to tool for employers and job seekers alike within the Kawartha Lakes market. There has been an increase in demand by clients to help access LinkedIn and to use the site as part of their job search. I have helped clients update their profile, modify their security settings and job search on the site – applying directly to positions around the province. Furthermore, my co-workers also say that people are including a link to their profile on the resumes they submit. There should be little doubt that once you have submitted a resume the employer will complete an online search for you anyway; controlling what information they will see is crucial.

LinkedIn allows you to expand the depth of the information provided to employers. The layers of information available to represent your skills, experience and other aspects of your professional profile can help employers choose you when they are searching for new recruits. The profile created allows people to see your background, so the level of detail you include is important. The endorsement process reflects your level of expertise in a skill. Having a larger network can boost the number of endorsements you receive. Your use of the site frequently can also make a difference as you update information and involve yourself in the networking aspect of the site. Being a website that reflects the professional identity of users means it is easier to keep content focused on achievements and other content related to developing your skills. You don’t have to worry about “Digital Dirt” sabotaging prospective employment opportunities.

Overall, given the growth of technology in all aspects of job search LinkedIn can be a powerful tool that you have a high level of control of to help and not hinder your job search. Using it effectively can extend your job search to new areas of interest and prospects.  

Feedback for your Boss…

I was recently meeting with a client that is working casual/part-time hours. More hours were becoming available and yet the client was stunned as to why she was not being asked to step in. As we discussed, and the client shared how much she felt she was contributing at the office I began to understand what might be hindering her ability to become a full time employee. While this client’s organizational skills and attention to detail are superb, it sounded like she was constantly speaking to her supervisor about changes that she felt should be made in the office, everything from inventory placement to the way the lawn was cut outside. Whether you’re the new kid on the block or the most senior employee there is a right way to give feedback and suggestions to your boss.

Here are some tips to keep in mind;

Build the relationship first

In this case my client is a fairly new employee which makes it extremely difficult to judge how receptive your boss is to feedback. Without a good working relationship and trust your feedback will likely be impossible to receive. Get to know them – and let them get to know and trust you.

Wait to be invited to give feedback or ask to be invited

Even if you have a great relationship with your boss, rhyming off a stream of problems that you feel need to be fixed is not recommended. Ideally your boss will ask for your input and provide an environment that is safe to give feedback – so be ready to bring up your issue as well as several suggestions for a solution. If your boss is not one to ask for feedback you can ask if they would like some input. This is especially easy to do when a new project or change occurs at work; you could say something like “Would it be helpful if I gave your feedback from an employee’s perspective during this change?” or even “If you are interested I’d like to discuss some suggestions with you.” Remember that it is important to demonstrate your genuine interest in improving your service or business.

Focus on YOUR observations 

Your feedback should always focus on what you are observing at work - not what you would do if you were the boss. Frame your feedback from your own perspective -tell your boss what you have heard or observed. Example, "I've noticed that clients are annoyed with the new invoicing process...". Also remember that you need to give specifics to back up your points as well as strengthen your suggestions for improvements. 

Understanding the Hiring Process

        

A lot of people who respond to job ads are surprised when they don’t hear back from the employer right away.  It isn’t surprising that many job seekers really don’t understand the hiring cycle and the length of time it takes an employer to get to a new person hired.  In reality it might take 1 – 3 months for an employer to hire the right candidate.

Let me spell it out for you.  An employer has a job vacancy arise.  It is either expected or unexpected.  In reality an unexpected opening can occur when an employee suddenly informs you that they are leaving for another position.  In reality most employees are only required to give 2 weeks’ notice.  During the 2 week notice period (usually 10 business days) an employer has to deal with some basic realities.  The first steps are deciding who can take over that person’s work load in the interim and secondly deciding if that person will be replaced?

In weeks 2 - 3, the usual process is to get an ad together.  In addition the job description needs to be reviewed and updated.  Depending upon how many staff are involved in this process it can often take a few days.  Once the ad is ready, it is sent off to the newspaper and on-line job sites etc.  Postings put onto on- line sites are usually posted within 24 hours but newspaper insertions are expensive so timing is important.  Certain days of the week can get more exposure than others and there are often a variety of papers to consider.  Deadlines for desired dates may have passed.

It is common to allow a week or two for job seekers to respond to an ad.  We are now in week 4 - 5. 

By week 6 the resumes are in and someone has to go through them all and make a short list.  Keep in mind not every employer has an HR department.  There may be over 100 applicants to your position. Usually the short list is sent to a second person.  Job interviews are scheduled and interviewees contacted.

Week7 is when the interviews are held.  If you decide to interview a number of candidates the interviews can take 2 days.  If you need to do some testing prior to the interview it can take 4 days.

Week 8 can be used for 2^nd interviews or reference checking.  Often the references of the top 2 candidates are checked.  Some references are easy to contact and others may take several days to return calls.

Week 9 is often when the final decisions made.  The successful candidate is contacted.  Often they need a day or two to think it over.  If they accept, they may need to give 2 weeks’ notice to their employer.  If they decline, the employer may go to the second candidate or start over. 

If all goes well the successful employee arrives for their first day of work in week 11. 

The bottom line for job seekers is to realize that hiring takes time. Don’t put all your hopes in one position and wait for the results.   Keep networking, keep talking with employers and your key contacts.  Keep job searching until you get that call to say that you have been the successful candidate.

Steps to organizing your Job Search!

What I find really interesting about meeting many different job seekers is learning about how different people organize their job search! Some job seekers don’t organize at all which can create confusion and this can be easily transparent to an employer! It is really important to write down what jobs you applied for, the contact of the employer and if there was a job advertisement print it off because if it was found online, it won't always be readily available.

One client in specific came to a first appointment with me this week highly organized and this helps in accessing employers faster, which typically leads to finding a job faster! She came with a book outlining 5 pages of employers in her field that she was interested in contacting. Not all of these employers were necessarily hiring but this list was a good standpoint for us to cold call to ask if they would be hiring in the near future. In one day over 15 calls were made to these local employers. Out of these 15 calls we had 4 interested employers for her to meet with! If it wasn’t for the client being prepared with this list of employers we would still be researching employers to contact. This made the workload very time efficient and organized!

What I would suggest next is a tip that comes from another client. This client is exceptionally good at organizing advertised work. He comes to each appointment with a USB that has a worksheet of all the places he has applied for, the job titles and how the application was sent. In individual folders on the USB he has a copy of the job advertisement, a copy of the cover letter sent, a copy of the resume sent and sometimes even a copy of the e-mail sent and any further online correspondence. Now I understand that this can be too computer heavy for some individuals and if so, I would adopt the same method but print a copy of the job you applied for, and make copies of the resumes and cover letters sent and put them in a folder. A VCCS we have our clients fill out a job lead log to help track what you apply for and these are available in our resources room!

I would highly suggest adopting the first method of organizing the non-advertised jobs you apply to and adopt the second method of organizing the advertised jobs you apply to. Remember, these organizational skills are easily assessed by employers and the more organized you are now, the less stressful your job search will be!

If you have any questions or would like help in learning more about organizing your job search visit VCCS today!

How to get the most out of a Job Fair

Last week at VCCS, we hosted a job fair for TSC. We had a great turn out, with almost 90 people showing up to find out more about the jobs that were available at this popular country hardware store. Job fairs can vary depending on how they are organized, where they are taking place and what jobs are being advertised. I would like to take this opportunity to highlight a few key points to help you get the most out of your next job fair.

Come Prepared

A job fair can host anywhere from one employer with several available jobs, to hundreds of employers with any number of available jobs. As a prospective employee, you may be going to just see what’s available or you may be attending with a specific job in mind. Either way, it’s always a good idea to arrive prepared, with an updated resume in hand. Make sure your address, phone numbers and email address are current, along with your most recent employment experiences written down. At this point you do not need to have your references prepared, as they are something you bring to your interview. If you have several different resumes (such as a sales/retail resume, a labour resume and an administrative resume) you might want to bring multiple copies of all of them, in case you’re interested in applying to different positions.

Know Yourself

Have a short summary about yourself mentally prepared. You’ll be speaking to prospective employers and you want to be able to express your skills and qualifications in an intelligent and polished manner. It’s best to not memorize complete sentences; simply focus on key points you wish to highlight, such as education, your strongest professional skills, any outstanding accomplishments or projects you’re proud of, and very importantly; what your future goals are. If you have these key points comfortably under your belt you will express yourself with confidence; something that every employer seeks in an employee.

Put in the Effort

Be sure to look your best when attending a job fair. Take the time to plan your wardrobe in advance; have your clothes washed, ironed and make sure they fit you just right and go well together. Have a shower that morning and perform all personal hygiene duties so that you present well. Remember that a first impression is made in the first 5-10 seconds-it’s absolutely worth it to look your best!

Follow the Leader

After introducing yourself, learning about the company and the jobs they have available, follow the lead of the employer; if they are very busy and have lots of people circulating around, they are probably distracted and it wouldn’t be the best time to ask a lot of questions. If it’s quiet and they seem to have time to chat, it could be a good opportunity to ask a few key questions. Follow their lead so the flow of conversation is comfortable and appropriate. It’s always a good idea to get their business card so you’ll have a record of what companies you were interested in pursuing. Definitely shake their hand in a warm and confident way, making sure you make good eye contact. You don’t just want to make a good first impression; strive to make a lasting impression.

If any of this advice reminds you of a job interview- you’re right on the mark! Treat a job fair just like a regular interview in terms of resume and question preparedness, and appearance. If a particular company or job is of particular interest to you, don’t hesitate to ask the employer if you can contact them to request further information, or an interview. That shows interest and initiative, and your follow up just might make the difference in you getting the job. If you have any questions with regards to resumes, interviews or anything else, don’t hesitate to contact us at VCCS where our goal is to help you succeed in your job search.

What employers really think?

What Do Employers Really Think?

Have you ever wondered about what really matters to employers when going in for that interview?  As a job developer working with both clients who are looking for employment and employers looking for new staff, I have the opportunity to hear a lot of helpful information.

Over the last few weeks it seems like the universe has cooperated in providing me with interesting fodder to share with readers. 

The first step is contact

When presenting your resume to an employer or your counsellor who is presenting on your behalf, make sure your contact information is correct.  Check your email and voice mail regularly as employers only have one opportunity to get you before they move on to the next candidate. Have things in place so that you can attend an interview that suits the employer’s schedule not yours, and if you are not sure, become sure quickly and make arrangements without providing the employer with the details. And consider your answering machine recording, does it sound professional or are you sounding like a prankster with too much time on their hands.  Another key piece of advice from an employer who was attempting to set up an interview was; who is answering your phone when you are not home…..this feedback from a recent employer trying to get an individual in for an interview…..

When I finally got through, I spoke to her brother.  He sounded young and unsure about her whereabouts. When I finally connected with the candidate she was unable to attend the interview I suggested as it did not suit her schedule when picking up her son. She may be unreliable, I am not sure if this is the right job for her.

First impression matters

So you have the interview and now you have received some great tips from your counsellor and the valuable employment counsellors in the resource room.  The rest is up to you and part of your responsibility is to apply what we are encouraging you to practise when you are in an actual interview situation.  Consider your attitude and the small talk that can flow freely from our lips….some more feedback from one of our employers….

I am not sure about him; he seemed to complain about a lot.  He commented about the government and how they were such a money grabber.  I have a feeling that he might not have the attitude that we are looking for here at our facility.

Dress for the interview in a professional, suitable to the workplace manner. Our first impression and how we present ourselves is critical and you only have one chance to leave that impression.  I give you once again direct feedback from one of our employers….

Client showed up for his interview wearing a maple leaf jersey/jeans.  The other two candidates we interviewed on that day showed up wearing a casual dress shirt and khaki pants.  He did not provide us with an overall good first impression. Jeans would have been acceptable but I’m suggesting that he purchase an inexpensive golf shirt or something. 

Prepare for your interview

Think of yourself from an employer’s perspective, when you look at your work story how would you market yourself favourably and authentically.  Employers are humans as well, they understand that we have events in our life that prohibit us from keeping a job but preparing a reasonable explanation with some humble insights are required to show growth.  The wise employer speaks authentically….

One of our biggest concerns was ambition and initiative.   He informed us that he was fired from Company ABC after returning from an illness/injury and stated that he was not informed why nor did his union back him up.  Being fired we appreciate can happen to anyone.  He would benefit from being coached as to how to answer this question.   His response left us feeling that there was likely more than what he disclosed and raised some red flags and did not provide us with any confidence that he learned anything from this experience.   

Our biggest concern was his responses regarding what he has been doing or rather not doing since 2010 to find employment which gave us an overall impression that he really was not taking active steps to secure employment (casual, part-time or full time) or develop himself.

So keep applying those great techniques that your Employment Counselors and Job Developers promote in your interview preparation.  Realize that they play a big part in creating a culture of fit with that potential employer, as an interviewee you have the ability to set a great tone and the key to your success.

References – There are better options than Yo’ Mama!

Here at VCCS we do something called a first appointment summary with each client. One of the questions that frequently cause clients stress is “Do you have references?”

The usual responses include;

“Its been so long – I wouldn’t have any idea how to contact them.”

“They wouldn’t have any idea who I am.”

“Only family members – some of them have different last names.”

“You could call my mom.”

References are very valuable, yet most people don’t seem to spend as much time arranging and coordinating with their references as they should. References are important because they give potential employers an idea of what they are getting into by hiring you – a glimpse of your work ethic and personality from someone who has already had experience with you.

There are 2 types of references; PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL. Both can be equally valuable.

Professional references are people that can attest to your skills, qualifications and abilities at work. Professional references can include; Managers, Supervisors, colleagues, clients and business contacts.

Personal references, sometimes referred to as character references, are people that can attest to characteristics that would benefit you are work, such as; reliability, taking initiative and being result-oriented. Personal references can include; teachers, pastors, someone that as supervised you volunteering or that you’ve volunteered with, coaches, members of the community and the list goes on. That’s the great thing about personal references – you can use anyone!

And now I hear you saying “Well what’s wrong with my mom then?” The important thing to remember about any reference is that the employer wants a legitimate opinion of your past work and personality. Having your mom or similar references on your list will make the employer wonder if their opinion of you is clouded by the fact that you are family or how much they would like you to get the job.

There are several keys to having good references:

1. Contact your references early and often. Don’t wait until you’ve been asked for an interview and then arrange your references. You should have a list of references that you are regularly in contact with. Consider holidays and special events as a great time to get back in touch.
2. Make sure your references know what type of work you are applying for. When you get a call for an interview and are asked to bring references with you, call your references, and discuss the qualifications of the position and what skills and experience you are depending on them to be speaking about. You could even go as far as sending the job description to them.
3. Let your reference know when your interview is and who the employer is.

If you still have questions about references…  “How do I ask people to be references for me?”….  “How do I format a references page correctly?”…Come into VCCS and our staff would be happy to help you! 

Frustrated with not hearing back from employers? No problem!

Recently, I was speaking with a client and she was having a bad day. She was deep into her job search but was frustrated by a lack of feedback from employers for all the resumes she was sending out. As soon as she started to reflect on this lack of communication I nodded my head in understanding. I have been hearing these same comments and observing the same frustrations since I began my career in Employment Services. Why is it that employers do not seem to care to respond to applications coming in for their different positions?  

It is a great question and some believe that it has an obvious answer, but more to the point how do we work through this problem. In the end, you are job searching and this is just another hurdle in your successful campaign to find that new job. So it really doesn’t matter what the answer is does it?

How to move forward? What are the challenges?

The first biggest barrier is the job that specifically says, do not email or call – you will be notified if you have been chosen. There may not be much room for you to maneuver, but this can be where your network of contacts can help, do you have somebody within the organization that may let you know of the progress, if you do then use them to find out. Please don’t feel that you are bothering or intruding on a friend in asking them to help you out, asking the question will not burn any bridges. Another option in this case is keep moving forward, continue to apply to the next job lead you have and don’t sit and wait before moving forward.

If there is no comment about following up, then of course, you should follow-up in a reasonable amount of time and ask things like when will the next steps in the process begin, when you will be arranging interviews, is there anything I can add to my application to help with your decision? Keep the dialogue open and progressive, add to the information you have sent in your application. But make sure you are addressing the correct person with these questions. When you apply get the name and position of the person making the hiring decisions, you don’t want the “gate keeper” answering you – they’re told not to give you any information.

Furthermore, you can get beyond the lack of communications by laying the ground work for an open dialogue with the employer early in the application process. Use your job search as a networking opportunity. If you present yourself in a professional manner, by email, phone or face to face, before there is a job opening, and maintain contact with the employer through your job search then when something comes up they may be more open to letting you know the details as you go along.

The job search can be a frustrating experience especially when not getting any feedback about your applications, but there are ways to keep moving forward with your search. Keep the applications flowing, don’t sit and wait to hearing back from your leads, get out and be busy in your search. If given the opportunity let the employer know you’re interested in the position and offer more reasons why they should be hiring you and finally use every opening as a chance to network if this is the job for you maybe there is another hidden around the next corner.

Good Luck! 

"Treat searching for a job like a full-time job"

Hello readers! I thought that I would post a blog about the infamous comment “treat searching for a job like a full time job.” When I tell my clients this I usually get mixed reactions. Some gasp, some laugh and some agree. Sometimes people will say to me “how is that possible? I wouldn’t have enough to keep me busy!” My answer is that perhaps job seekers need to incorporate more creative strategies into their job search. Job searching is far more advanced than having a resume. Job searching is far more advanced than finding advertised work online and applying by e-mail. I remember during a period previously in my life when I was job searching I decided to map out employers that I would apply to in person. I had approximately 20 employers to apply to in person and created customized resumes and cover letters for each employer identifying why I wanted to work for them and why they should hire me. I thought to myself on the day that I was handing them out in person, this will be easy, I will get this done in no time. I was naïve. Applying to 20 employers in person takes a lot longer and lot more effort than I had originally anticipated.

There are 3 primary reasons why I tell job seekers to treat finding a job like a full time job. First this will force the job seeker to introduced creative strategies into their job search that they are not yet utilizing. Second sometimes this will help to create a schedule such as waking up at 9am to start and not job searching after sleeping in during the morning, which can actually become more draining. This is the age old saying “The early bird gets the worm.” Finally, sometimes job seekers will not stop job searching and this can make for a hectic family life or could lead to burnout. It is best to create a schedule for yourself. So what will this schedule look like? We are housed with Employment Counsellors that can help to introduce to you creative strategies that you are not yet utilizing into your job search. Here is an example of what a day in the life of a job seeker may look like:

9am-10am: Read the paper. Not just the classifieds but the whole paper. Look for employers that just received funding or that are creating new opportunities or expanding that could lead to future hiring. Look at the advertisements.

10am-12pm: Follow up with those employers. Before you cold call the employers to follow up make sure that you research more about them.

12pm-1pm: Lunch – enjoy your lunch break this will help you to set a schedule.

1pm-3pm: Look through the online job postings. You are focusing on advertised work here. Apply to the positions that interest you with a cover letter and resume that is tailored to the job and to the company hiring. Always keep your eye open for new websites that house advertised work and create yourself a “favourites” list.

3pm-4pm: Hit the pavement. Apply to employers in person. This will also be a good time to follow up in person to any of the employers that you noticed in the papers or online today.

4pm-5pm: Log into your LinkedIn account. Connect with local employers. Send them a message online to inquire about upcoming opportunities. If you don’t have a LinkedIn account already you may want to create on. It’s a great way to market your skills online and connect with key players in the community.

There are many many more creative strategies beyond those listed above that can be utilized. Visit VCCS Employment Services to gain extra support and advice on how to become more successful with your job search.

 

Getting your 2013 job search going with a BANG!

It’s a new year, forget about any frustration you were feeling leading up to the holiday season and jumpstart your 2013 job search by asking yourself these questions;

1.      Are all your documents updated?

Go through your job search materials and make sure they are up to date. You may even want to consider a change in presentation or format to renew/refresh things. Take a good look at your cover letter, resume, online profile and/or professional portfolio. Remember that these are documents that SELL you to employers! Consider registering for our upcoming Resume Workshop January 24^th, 2013.

2.      Analyze your job search strategy?

Take a detailed look at what your strategy so far has been. Do you feel like you are using job search strategies that are helping you move towards your goals? What has been successful? What hasn’t?  Come into VCCS and speak to a counsellor about what else you could be doing. Also, consider registering for our Find Work Now Workshop January 15^th, 2013 which covers current job opportunities in our area and maybe some new strategies that you haven’t tried in your search!

3.      Are you networking?

Networking is one of the most successful job search strategies. A new year is a great time to catch up with old contacts. Drop them a line asking how they are and letting them know what type of opportunity you are looking for. Also, remember how important it is to make new networking connections. Jump-start your 2013 job search but attending networking events, employer presentations or community meetings. Check out local agencies and volunteer opportunities by visiting www.fourinfo.com

Call (705) 328-0180 to register for workshops. Or email career@careerservices.org for more information.